Slam balls can be used for standard weight-lifting exercises in place of free weights and for dynamic exercises that involve an increased cardiovascular aspect. Slam balls are also effective for athletic training because they improve muscle mass, cardiovascular endurance and hand-eye coordination.
The most significant difference between a slam ball and medicine ball is that a slam ball is designed for throwing exercises. It has a harder shell typically made of a tough rubber so it can handle a high-velocity impact against a hard surface.